The junior high one-act play troupe performed at district competition in Seymour on Nov. 16.
Their play “Wild Strawberries” by Jerry Ayers won first place play and other individual awards were given to members of the cast and crew.
Director Haley Owen said her concerns were reassured after hearing results and judge critiques.
“Our greatest strength is that we did not have a weak actor in any role on the stage,” Owen said. “As pointed out by our judge, whether they had five or fifty lines, they were very solid across the whole ensemble. That is an amazing compliment and a huge testament to the hard work that these kids put in.”
Seventh graders Ashlyn Harvey and Millie Mayo received All-Star Cast awards.
“I was very proud of my performance and happy to be recognized for it,” Harvey said. “For JHOAP next year, I would like to keep improving my acting skills and hope we once again place first next year.”
Seventh grader Alexis Rice and eighth grader Brilee Canada received Honorable Mention awards.
Eighth grade MaKaylee McCown was awarded Best Sound Technician and feels very proud and happy about the results for both cast and crew.
“It feels nice to be appreciated for all the time and effort I put into this year’s show,” McCown said. “There was only one sound delay during our performance at Seymour, but luckily, the actors played it off really well.”
Owen said she was relieved to see that the actors were able to get past the previously mentioned sound delay and keep the show running.
“We even dealt with a technical issue with the opening of our show, and the kids thankfully handled it like seasoned performers,” Owen said.
Directors Becky Nogle and Owen said they are both proud of this year’s turnout and how the troupe kept doing their best no matter what happened.
“Our performance at contest was our best one yet. The kids left it all on the stage and you can’t ask for more than that,” Owen said. “Honestly, there is not a thing that could have gone better.”